Next EU summit may alter some of Turkish migrant deal

Significance

Leaders have tried to put a positive spin on the inconclusive result, insisting they outlined the main principles of a deal and would work out details over the next ten days before convening again at the scheduled March 17-18 European Council summit to conclude an agreement.

Impacts

• EU leaders are desperate to find a common approach to the refugee crisis before it leads to complete unravelling of the Schengen area.
• Such leaders as Germany's Merkel face huge political pressure to reduce the refugee influx which is fuelling support for extremist parties.
• If the plan works, it may lift the severe pressure on Greece by reducing the inflow of migrants and allowing relocation in the EU.